Lead Sound Designer - Theatre & Live Events

Placements24; George; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid & retirement contributions

Paid annual & sick leave

Professional development

Creative working atmosphere

Job summary

Placements24 in George, Western Cape, SA, seeks a Lead Sound Designer to conceive, develop and implement sound for theatre and live events. You will lead the sound design process, collaborate with directors and creative teams, and ensure immersive audio experiences across venues in George.

Flexible hours include evenings and weekends as required. The role requires a strong portfolio, 7+ years in the field, and proficiency with Yamaha, Avid consoles, Pro Tools and Logic Pro.

Qualifications

• 7+ years in sound design or senior audio role.
• Portfolio of sound designs for plays, musical, or large events.
• Proficiency with digital consoles and DAWs listed above.
• Strong acoustics, signal flow, mic techniques and system design.
• Excellent problem-solving under live-performance pressure.
• Strong communication with directors and creative teams.
• Experience in budget management and resource allocation.
• Degree/diploma in related field preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead sound design from concept to execution for theatre and live events.
• Create sound plots, cue sheets, and system specs.
• Operate sound consoles during rehearsals/performances.
• Source and edit sound effects to support narrative.
• Collaborate with directors, composers, and team members.
• Oversee equipment selection, maintenance and budget adherence.
• Mentor junior sound technicians and assistants.
• Conduct acoustic measurements and optimize venues in George.
• Troubleshoot sound issues during rehearsals or shows.
• Stay updated with audio tech advancements.

Skills

Sound Design

Leadership

Acoustics

Budget Management

Team Mentoring

Audio Software

Education

Sound Engineering Degree

Theatre Production Diploma

Tools

Yamaha

Avid

Pro Tools

Logic Pro

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly respected entity in the South African theatre and live event production industry, is seeking an exceptional Lead Sound Designer to join their team in George. This is a critical role for an individual with a profound understanding of audio technology, acoustic principles, and creative sound design for performance. The Lead Sound Designer will be responsible for conceptualizing, developing, and implementing all aspects of sound for a diverse range of theatrical productions and live events. Operating from George, Western Cape, you will collaborate closely with directors, stage managers, and technical teams to bring artistic visions to life through immersive and compelling audio experiences. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the vibrant cultural landscape of George and influence the sonic identity of major productions.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the sound design process from concept development through to final execution for all assigned theatrical productions and live events.
• Create detailed sound plots, cue sheets, and technical specifications for sound systems and equipment.
• Operate sound consoles during rehearsals and performances as required, ensuring flawless execution of the sound design.
• Source, record, edit, and mix sound effects, ambient sounds, and musical elements to enhance the narrative and emotional impact of productions.
• Collaborate closely with directors, composers, and other creative team members to achieve a unified artistic vision.
• Manage the technical aspects of the sound department, including equipment selection, maintenance, and budget adherence.
• Oversee and mentor junior sound technicians and assistants, fostering their professional growth.
• Conduct acoustic measurements and make adjustments to ensure optimal sound quality in various performance venues in George.
• Troubleshoot and resolve any technical sound issues that arise during rehearsals or performances.
• Stay current with advancements in audio technology, software, and industry best practices.

Requirements

• Extensive experience (7+ years) as a Sound Designer or in a similar senior audio role within the theatre or live event industry.
• Demonstrated portfolio of successful sound designs for plays, musical or large-scale events.
• Proficiency in professional audio software and hardware, including digital mixing consoles (e.g., Yamaha, Avid), DAWs (e.g., Pro Tools, Logic Pro), and sound effect editing software.
• Strong understanding of acoustics, signal flow, microphone techniques, and sound system design.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work effectively under pressure in a live environment.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse creative teams.
• Experience in budget management and resource allocation for sound departments.
• A degree or diploma in Sound Engineering, Theatre Production, or a related field is preferred.
• Knowledge of rigging and stage technical operations is a plus.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as required by production schedules in George.

Benefits

• Highly competitive annual salary reflecting your expertise.
• Opportunity to shape the soundscape of prestigious productions in George, Western Cape.
• Access to state-of-the-art sound equipment and technology.
• Contribution to a dynamic and respected entertainment organization.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Paid annual leave and sick leave.
• Professional development and conference attendance opportunities.
• A supportive and creative working atmosphere.